CryptoTale News

CLARITY Act talks resume as Coinbase CEO signals three-way policy compromise path.

Stablecoin reward dispute narrows as banks and crypto companies return to talks.

Polymarket odds swing sharply to 90% as CLARITY Act momentum rebuilds in Washington.

Momentum is building in Washington around the CLARITY Act after weeks of tense negotiations between crypto firms, banks, and lawmakers. However, fresh optimism emerged today when Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong signaled that talks had returned to a constructive phase, describing progress toward what he called a “win-win-win” outcome for the industry, traditional financial institutions, and U.S. consumers.

Market structure is making great progress, and I believe we're going to reach a win-win-win outcome.

A win for the crypto industry.
A win for the banks.
And, most importantly, a win for the American consumer. pic.twitter.com/t0WM3XUZX4

— Brian Armstrong (@brian_armstrong) February 18, 2026

Armstrong spoke alongside Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) at the World Liberty Forum in Mar-a-Lago before reiterating his remarks on X following a CNBC interview. His comments marked a shift from earlier gridlock that stalled advancement of the CLARITY Act and briefly strained relations between crypto executives and the White House.

Negotiations Reopen After Draft Dispute

The breakthrough follows weeks of disagreement over draft language that sought to restrict stablecoin rewards. Industry leaders, including the Coinbase CEO, opposed provisions that would ban interest-bearing stablecoins and position the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as the primary regulator of the crypto sector.

Armstrong stated during his CNBC appearance that Coinbase could not support the previous draft due to those provisions. He noted that concerns raised by the exchange and other industry participants prompted lawmakers and stakeholders to return to the negotiating table.

According to Armstrong, discussions now point toward a structure that satisfies crypto firms, protects banking interests, and advances President Donald Trump’s digital asset agenda. Initially, the White House had reportedly expressed disappointment when Coinbase withdrew support, describing the move as unilateral.

Regardless, renewed dialogue suggests alignment may be forming around revised language. Senator Moreno acknowledged that negotiations had stalled after lawmakers became “hung up” on stablecoin rewards, adding that such rewards shouldn’t be part of this equation.

Timeline and Political Outlook

Moreno projected April as a potential approval timeline for the CLARITY Act, stating, “We are going to get this across the finish line, hopefully by April.” His remarks signal confidence among Republican lawmakers that outstanding issues can be resolved within weeks.

When asked whether a Democratic shift in Congress could derail the measure, Moreno dismissed the possibility. He said neither the House nor the Senate would flip, framing the legislation as aligned with voter priorities. He cited concerns over inflation and government overreach as factors that shaped the current political environment.

Source: Polymarket

Meanwhile, prediction markets reflected fluctuating expectations. At press time, Polymarket odds of the CLARITY Act passing in 2026 briefly climbed to 90% before retreating to 56% at publication time. The rapid shift underscored both heightened interest and lingering uncertainty.

Related: U.S. CFTC Chair Selig Warns States Over Prediction Markets

Final Meetings Before Deadline

Meanwhile, industry representatives and banking executives are scheduled to reconvene today to address the remaining impasse over stablecoin yields. According to journalist Eleanor Terrett, another meeting could take place on February 19, though confirmation remains pending. Patrick Witt, executive director of the White House Crypto Council, also indicated that discussions may resume as early as this week without specifying a date.

NEW: Two sources familiar with the matter tell me the White House is considering another stablecoin yield meeting between banks and crypto representatives Thursday, though no plans have been finalized. https://t.co/Og3OooHaQr

— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) February 17, 2026

Only slightly more than one week remains before an end-of-month deadline that would require banking and crypto stakeholders to finalize terms. That timeline has increased pressure on negotiators to reach a consensus.Overall, the renewed momentum surrounding the CLARITY Act reflects a recalibrated approach after public friction between crypto firms and regulators. With the Coinbase CEO signaling progress and lawmakers pointing to an April target, attention now shifts to whether revised language can bridge divisions over stablecoin policy and regulatory oversight.

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Kraken acquired Magna to support token issuers earlier across the token lifecycle.

The arrangement closed Friday and extends Kraken’s sixth acquisition run in 12 months.

Kraken registered for a US IPO in November and shared 2025 financials in February.

Kraken has acquired token management platform Magna, marking its sixth acquisition in roughly 12 months as the crypto exchange advances toward a planned U.S. public listing. The deal closed Friday, and Kraken declined to disclose financial terms. The purchase follows its $1.5 billion acquisition of U.S. futures platform NinjaTrader in March 2025. With Magna now inside its ecosystem, Kraken expands deeper into token lifecycle services while preparing for an IPO filed confidentially in November.

Expanding Into Token Lifecycle Services

Magna provides infrastructure that helps crypto companies manage token distribution. Startups often promise investors a tranche of tokens during fundraising, similar to equity in traditional venture deals. As tokens begin trading, tracking allocations becomes more complex.

According to a recent Fortune report, Arjun Sethi, Kraken’s co-CEO, stated that the acquisition allows the exchange to support token issuers earlier in their life cycle. He said Kraken wants to engage projects before they reach the liquidity stage. That approach broadens Kraken’s role beyond secondary market trading.

Kraken operates under its parent company, Payward, and has accelerated dealmaking since mid-2025. The company entered into retail futures and traditional trading markets through its $1.5 billion acquisition of NinjaTrader. That purchase expanded Kraken’s reach beyond cryptocurrencies.

The exchange also acquired the proprietary trading platform Breakout, the tokenized equities provider Backed, and the derivatives infrastructure firm Small Exchange. Each transaction added new layers to Kraken’s product suite. Together, the deals position Kraken as a broader financial services platform.

In November, Kraken filed confidentially for an IPO in the United States. In February, it released portions of its 2025 financial results in a format similar to public company reporting. Sethi declined to provide a timeline for listing, noting that firms in the IPO process typically face regulatory quiet period restrictions.

Related: Kraken to Sponsor Trump Accounts for Wyoming Babies 2026

Industry Race Toward Full-Stack Platforms

Kraken’s move mirrors a wider shift among crypto exchanges. Competitors increasingly seek to capture value earlier in a project’s development cycle. Exchanges now compete not only for trading volume but also for infrastructure control.

Coinbase, one of Kraken’s largest rivals, announced plans to become an “everything exchange.” It recently enabled prediction market trading through a partnership with startup Kalshi. Last summer, Coinbase acquired Liquifi, a direct Magna competitor focused on token issuance and compliance workflows.

Anchorage Digital also entered the space. In December, it acquired Hedgey, a firm that provides token allocation and vesting tools. These transactions show how exchanges and custodians aim to integrate fundraising, distribution, and trading into unified platforms.

Magna will continue serving existing customers. Kraken said it will provide updates as it integrates products. 

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WLFI rebounds 30% from $0.099 after defending the key $0.10–$0.09 value support zone level.

Trading volume jumps 85% to $450M as open interest surges 45% to $367M in 24H.

Price holds above $0.115 support while resistance stands firm near the $0.129 level.

WLFI spent most of February moving sideways, with price repeatedly defending the $0.10–$0.09 support band. On the daily chart, that area aligns with the value area low on a fixed-range volume profile, reinforcing it as a support zone where bids tended to return.

Recently, that support was held again, and the rebound was swift. From a $0.099 low, the WLFI price jumped about 30% in two days, clearing $0.11 and topping out near $0.1294 before stalling at resistance. However, a slight pullback followed, erasing about 9% of the surge.

Source: TradingView

At press time, the token trades around $0.1176, up roughly 2% in the past 24 hours and about 11% over the past week. Besides, the advance unfolded alongside an 85% surge in 24-hour trading volume to $450 million, sharply diverging from the broader market’s 1.54% decline.

A turnover ratio of 0.154 indicates concentrated activity and aggressive positioning. Thus, market watchers are focused on whether volume remains elevated. Sustained prints above $400 million would signal continued engagement, while a rapid drop would suggest the move is losing fuel.

Whale Buy and World Swap Update Lifts Attention

Activity around WLFI also picked up early in the week after a single large wallet executed a notable buy. According to Arkham Intelligence, that address deployed roughly $2.75 million in USDC to acquire 21.11 million WLFI tokens, a transaction that quickly circulated across trading desks and social channels.

A newly created wallet, 0xC581, spent 2.75M $USDC to buy 21.11M $WLFI in a single transaction 10 hours ago.https://t.co/ly9DmUvQJV pic.twitter.com/EKldhNZj8r

— Lookonchain (@lookonchain) February 16, 2026

The timing drew added attention. The purchase landed days after Zak Folkman, co-founder of World Liberty Financial, said the project plans to launch World Swap, a foreign exchange and remittance platform aimed at the $7 trillion forex market. While the announcement did not include launch metrics or revenue projections, it provided fresh context as capital rotated into the token.

Derivatives data reflected the shift in positioning. Open interest expanded by more than 45% over 24 hours, reaching about $367 million. The increase suggests new contracts entering the market rather than simply churn between existing participants.

Source: CoinGlass

Such an expansion in open interest often signals that traders are stepping in to express directional views. In this case, the rise points to heightened engagement in the futures market, with participants positioning around the project’s latest developments and the recent price momentum.

Related: XRP Price Analysis: Is the Bearish Trend Set to Continue Short Term?

Key Levels Frame the “Momentum” Question

From a chart perspective, the retracement has so far respected the 23.6% Fibonacci level at $0.1152. That mark also lines up with the 20-day moving average, giving the area added technical weight in the near term. Price has hovered just above it, suggesting that buyers are still defending the zone, at least for now.

Regardless, where the move goes next appears closely tied to participation. If volume remains firm and the $0.115 floor continues to attract bids, a return to the recent $0.129 peak comes back into focus.

Beyond that, traders have been eyeing the $0.14 area as the next logical extension. Besides, momentum readings are improving, though not yet stretched. The RSI stands near 45 and has turned higher after dipping into oversold territory earlier in the month.

A push through the 50 midpoint would typically reflect strengthening demand, though it would need to be accompanied by steady turnover to carry weight. Meanwhile, the more immediate risk sits below. A decisive break under $0.11 would weaken the current structure and reopen the prior $0.10–$0.09 demand band that defined February’s consolidation.

In short, the bias leans upward, but it rests heavily on sustained trading interest rather than a shift in underlying fundamentals.

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XLS-81 lets administrators gate XRPL’s native order book to approved, verified traders.

Access rules can align with KYC and AML checks while trades settle natively on-chain.

XLS-85 extends escrow to trustline tokens and MPTs, covering RLUSD and tokenized assets.

The XRP Ledger has activated XLS-81, a protocol upgrade that lets regulated institutions run gated trading venues directly on-chain. The amendment introduces a permissioned DEX that limits access to approved participants. Administrators can control who places and accepts trades while XRPL keeps order-book trading native to the ledger. The move signals XRPL’s continued focus on infrastructure designed for banks and brokers.

XLS-81 Brings Gated Trading to XRPL’s Built-In DEX

According to the protocol’s amendment documentation, XLS-81 creates controlled versions of XRPL’s built-in decentralized exchange. Instead of relying only on the existing open order book, the network now supports a structure that restricts participation. The model gives institutions a way to trade on-chain under defined eligibility rules.

Unlike permissionless decentralized exchanges that allow anyone to trade, the permissioned DEX enables designated administrators to decide who can place offers. Those administrators can also decide who can accept offers. In turn, the system can align participation with compliance checks such as know-your-customer and anti-money-laundering requirements.

A permissioned domain can restrict access on both sides of a trade. That design forms a members-only marketplace while keeping the trading mechanics native to the ledger. As a result, firms can use on-chain settlement and on-chain liquidity without entering fully open DeFi markets.

A Public Network Built for Regulated Participation

The XRP Ledger is a public blockchain that launched in 2012 and has close ties to Ripple. The network supports payments, token issuance, and decentralized exchange functionality at the base layer. With XLS-81, that base layer now supports controlled venues alongside open access trading.

The Permissioned DEX targets financial institutions that want blockchain-based settlement while maintaining control over counterparty eligibility. For banks and brokers, access control often serves as a minimum requirement. Many of these firms cannot interact with markets that do not restrict participation.

The new model keeps the core exchange workflow on XRPL while adding a gating layer. Administrators can approve participants and restrict who interacts with offers. That approach supports a regulated market structure on a public ledger without changing how retail users access the open DEX.

XLS-85 Token Escrow Adds Conditional Settlement Options

The activation adds to a growing set of institutional DeFi primitives XRPL has rolled out this month. Token Escrow, known as XLS-85, went live last week. The update extends XRPL’s native escrow system beyond XRP to trustline-based tokens and Multi-Purpose Tokens.

XLS-85 also covers stablecoins such as RLUSD and tokenized real-world assets issued on the network. With token escrow, issuers and participants can set conditions around asset settlement. That creates a native tool for conditional settlement across a wider set of assets.

Together, XLS-81 and XLS-85 form a broader toolkit for regulated finance on XRPL. Token escrow supports conditional settlement for issued assets. The permissioned DEX offers a controlled venue for trading those assets within restricted participation rules.

Related: XRPL Prepares XLS-86 Firewall for Protocol-Level Security

Industry analysts say these steps reflect an ongoing effort to connect traditional capital markets with blockchain-native infrastructure. In this design, XRPL combines decentralization with regulated access. That mix supports use cases such as tokenized funds, stablecoin FX rails, and regulated secondary markets for tokenized assets.

In recent months, a RippleX engineer explored the potential for native XRP staking, and Ripple CTO David Schwartz discussed possible future design changes. Separately, Ripple partnered with Aviva Investors to tokenize funds on XRPL. Those developments sit alongside the network’s institutional feature set and point to continued activity around regulated issuance and market structure.

Retail traders can still use XRPL’s open DEX without change. At the same time, the Permissioned DEX opens a separate segment of on-chain liquidity for institutions that previously relied on private or centralized systems.

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Selig says the CFTC holds exclusive power over event contracts and will litigate.

States argue sports-based markets breach betting laws as the Nevada ruling backs them.

Crypto leaders cheer the reset, while a senator and Spencer Cox warn of gambling harm.

U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chairman Mike Selig issued a sharp warning to state governments challenging prediction markets such as Polymarket and Kalshi. In a video posted Tuesday on X, he declared that the CFTC holds exclusive jurisdiction over these derivative markets and vowed to defend that authority in court. 

His statement comes as several states pursue legal action against event-contract platforms, arguing they violate state sports-betting laws. The dispute now places federal regulators, state officials, and major crypto firms in a growing legal clash.

I have some big news to announce… pic.twitter.com/3OBNTaOnIL

— Mike Selig (@ChairmanSelig) February 17, 2026

Federal Authority Versus State Laws

Selig said the CFTC has regulated these markets for more than two decades. He argued that prediction markets serve public functions by allowing Americans to hedge risks such as temperature shifts and energy price spikes. He also said they act as a check on news media and information streams.

At the same time, several states have targeted event-contract platforms. Nevada, Massachusetts, and New York have accused companies of breaching state sports-betting laws. A federal judge in Nevada ruled in November that state authorities were correct and that the contracts did not fall under CFTC oversight. That ruling remains under appeal.

Meanwhile, Coinbase has entered the dispute. The crypto exchange is suing Connecticut, Illinois, and Michigan over efforts to regulate sports contracts as gaming activities. As this legal fight widens, Selig insists that only the CFTC can regulate these derivatives markets.

Political Shifts and Industry Moves

Selig’s stance marks a shift from the agency’s earlier approach. Before President Donald Trump returned to Washington, the CFTC fought against some political betting contracts. The agency had argued that such contracts were unlawful and contrary to the public interest.

Courts later ruled against the CFTC in its dispute with Kalshi. After leadership changes under Trump’s administration, the agency dropped its legal fight. In early 2025, Don Trump Jr. joined Kalshi as a strategic adviser. In August, he also joined Polymarket’s advisory board.

In October, Trump Media & Technology Group, which owns Truth Social, announced plans to enter the prediction markets business. Within weeks of his Senate confirmation, Selig said the CFTC would reset its approach. He pledged to advance new rulemaking grounded in what he described as a rational interpretation of the Commodity Exchange Act that promotes responsible innovation.

Related: US Senate Confirms Michael Selig, Travis Hill to Lead CFTC and FDIC

State Resistance and Political Reaction

Utah Governor Spencer Cox responded directly to Selig’s statement. On X, he questioned the CFTC’s authority over what he described as the “derivative market” of sports events, including LeBron James rebounds. He called prediction markets gambling and said they harm families, especially young men.

Although Utah has not led major lawsuits, lawmakers there are considering measures to target certain sports contracts. Cox said he would use every power available to challenge federal claims in court. He also wrote in a Wall Street Journal essay that the agency would not sit idle while states seek prohibitions on these products.

Crypto executives welcomed Selig’s remarks. Tyler Winklevoss, co-founder of Gemini, said such leadership would help position the United States as a global hub for crypto and markets. On the other hand, Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the move. She said the CFTC should focus on safeguarding derivatives markets rather than limiting state authority over gambling regulation.

As federal and state officials prepare for further legal battles, one question now looms: who ultimately controls the future of prediction markets in the United States?

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Elemental will pay eligible investors in XAUT, a token whose value tracks gold directly.

Tether’s one-third stake sets context as the firm tests tokenized dividends at scale.

Tokenized gold tops $5B and XAUT leads supply, while ELE shares slid 7.33% on Feb. 17.

Elemental Royalty Corporation (ELE) will allow shareholders to receive dividends in Tether Gold (XAUT) instead of cash, becoming the first public gold company to offer blockchain-based gold token payouts. The Canada-based royalty firm announced the policy on Tuesday and confirmed that qualifying registered shareholders may elect to direct their cash dividend toward purchasing XAUT. Tether acquired one-third of Elemental last year, setting the stage for this integration of tokenized gold into corporate finance.

Dividend Policy Tied to Tether Gold

Elemental stated that shareholders who choose the option will receive returns in XAUT rather than fiat currency. XAUT tracks the price of gold and settles digitally on blockchain infrastructure. As a result, investors gain direct exposure to gold through a token format.

The company described the move as the first of its kind among publicly listed gold firms. It said the inaugural dividend policy reflects a disciplined approach that balances strategic growth investments with direct shareholder returns.

NEWS RELEASE: Elemental Royalty Corporation announces inaugural dividend and world-first option for eligible shareholders to receive Tether Gold XAUT

Read the full release here: https://t.co/BCKyzvOhRm#royalties #gold #investing $ELE.US $ELE.CA pic.twitter.com/CtB1SCVxhW

— Elemental Royalty Corporation (@Elemental_Royal) February 17, 2026

David M. Cole, Chief Executive Officer of Elemental Royalty, addressed the development in a press release. He said, “The approval of this dividend policy marks an important milestone in Elemental’s strategic trajectory and reflects our confidence in the strength and momentum of the business; we believe this is the right time to introduce a sustainable, long-term, dividend.” He added that offering a dividend in kind through Tether Gold differentiates Elemental as a growth-oriented investment.

Tokenized Gold Market Expansion

Gold-backed tokens have grown into a fast-rising asset class. The total market for tokenized gold has surpassed $5 billion. XAUT leads the sector in both trading volume and circulating supply.

Retail investors have driven much of this growth. Many seek gold exposure without relying on traditional custodians or intermediaries. XAUT allows holders to access gold price exposure in digital form.

Earlier this year, YouTube rival Rumble adopted XAUT as a payment option. The platform enabled users to tip creators using XAUT alongside Bitcoin and USDT. To expand payment utility, Tether introduced “Scudo,” which represents one-thousandth of a troy ounce of gold within the XAUT system. These initiatives focused on consumer payments, yet Elemental now applies tokenized gold to corporate dividends. Could this signal a broader shift in how public companies distribute shareholder returns?

Paolo Ardoino, Chief Executive Officer of Tether, commented on the announcement. He said, “This marks a major step forward for the gold industry and shows how tokenized assets can unlock new financial models that were previously out of reach.” He also described earlier efforts to integrate tokenized gold on Wall Street as challenging.

Related: Tether Sees Minting Activity as Ardoino Unveils AI Plans

Financial Position and Market Context

Elemental’s portfolio consists of high-margin, cash-generating royalty assets. The company expects continued growth in asset values and revenue from near-term development projects. It also cited expansions at producing assets as part of its financial strength.

The firm said this strength supports capital returns through meaningful dividends. Registered shareholders who qualify may elect to invest their cash dividend into XAUT purchases.

Meanwhile, Elemental Royalty Corp. shares closed at $26.41 on February 17 at 5:40 PM UTC-5. The stock declined 7.33%, or $2.09, from the previous close of $28.50. During the session, the price moved within a range of $25.93 to $28.49.

Source: Google Finance

The company’s market capitalization stands at 1.69 billion CAD. Average trading volume measures 72.92K shares. The stock carries a price-to-earnings ratio of 92.94 and lists no dividend yield. Over the past year, shares traded between $11.30 and $34.29, based on available chart data across multiple time frames.

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The Finance Ministry pegs daily crypto flow near 50B rubles and says it sits off-system.

The central bank estimates Russians will hold 933B rubles on exchanges by mid-2025.

Chainalysis tracks $376B in inflows as lawmakers ready spring rules for licenses.

Russia’s Finance Ministry says crypto transactions now reach about 50 billion rubles a day, or nearly $650 million. Most of that activity takes place outside the regulated financial system. The disclosure comes as lawmakers prepare a bill to license exchanges and brokers during the State Duma’s spring session. Officials cite annual transaction volumes above $130 billion and growing public participation.

Daily Volume and Public Participation

Deputy Finance Minister Ivan Chebeskov detailed the figures during the Alfa Talk event. He said millions of citizens take part in crypto trading across the country. He placed annual transaction volume above $130 billion.

Chebeskov said, “We’ve repeatedly said that millions of citizens are involved in crypto trading. That represents trillions of rubles’ worth of purchases and savings. The annual transaction volume in Russia is over $130 billion. All of that is currently occurring in unregulated spaces. It’s outside the scope of our control.”

HUGE: RUSSIA’S CRYPTO TRADING VOLUME EXCEEDS $650M PER DAY

Russia’s Finance Ministry says crypto trading volume now exceeds $650M daily, roughly $130B annually, as lawmakers move to formalize the market.

Moscow Exchange (MOEX) already lists $BTC and $ETH futures, with $SOL,… pic.twitter.com/WTw6zSbPCE

— BSCN (@BSCNews) February 16, 2026

RBC and Interfax reported that the ministry based its estimates on data from Rosfinmonitoring’s Transparent Blockchain platform. Officials noted that the numbers do not represent audited on-chain metrics. Still, they said the data reflects the market’s scale.

Meanwhile, the Bank of Russia’s financial stability report shows that Russian users held about 933 billion rubles, nearly $12 billion, on global crypto exchanges by mid-2025. These exchanges operate beyond Russia’s regulatory perimeter.

The same report for the second and third quarters of 2025 estimated the average monthly balance of Russian funds on exchanges at 933 billion rubles. Rosfinmonitoring analyzed inflows and outflows from major global platforms to produce the estimate.

Europe’s Largest Crypto Market

Chainalysis data ranks Russia as Europe’s largest crypto market. Between July 2024 and June 2025, Russia received more than $376 billion in crypto inflows. The United Kingdom followed with $273 billion.

Germany and Ukraine were the only other European countries to exceed $200 billion in inflows during that period. The figures place Russia at the center of regional digital asset activity.

At the same Alfa Talk conference, Sergei Shvetsov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Moscow Exchange, addressed the flow of fees to global platforms. He said Russians pay about $15 billion in fees to foreign crypto exchanges.

Shvetsov said crypto exchanges and traditional exchanges earn about $50 billion annually from crypto asset trading. He estimated that roughly one-third of that amount relates to Russian participants. “That is, $15 billion is what our citizens and our companies are leaving behind in the gray national infrastructure and in offshore infrastructure,” he said.

He added that the Moscow Exchange wants to compete for that market share. He compared the exchange’s annual profit of about $1 billion with the $15 billion in fees that could move into a regulated environment.

Related: Russia Moves to Legalize Crypto Trading Under State Control

Draft Bill and Regulatory Transition

Lawmakers now prepare a draft bill that would introduce a licensing and compliance framework for crypto exchanges and brokers. Officials expect a vote during the State Duma’s spring session.

Vladimir Chistyukhin, First Deputy Chairman of the Bank of Russia, said he expects lawmakers to approve the new regulations during the upcoming session. Under the proposal, licensed exchanges and brokers could offer services such as spot trading.

Exchange offices would need specific licenses. Authorities would impose penalties on platforms that operate without permits. At the same time, regulators plan to grant a transition period so market participants can secure licenses and establish compliance procedures.

The Bank of Russia has also proposed a differentiated approach. Access to certain crypto products could vary depending on investor category.

With daily trading nearing $650 million and billions in annual inflows, can Russia bring this vast market under formal oversight during the spring session?

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Robert Kiyosaki warns a historic market crash is imminent and urges investors to prepare now.

He confirms buying more Bitcoin during market weakness as others react to rising volatility.

Critics cite past crash forecasts, yet his Bitcoin accumulation keeps markets watching closely.

Robert Kiyosaki, the bestselling author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, once again stirred financial markets today with a stark warning about the global economy and a public announcement that he is increasing his Bitcoin holdings. In a social media post that quickly went viral, Kiyosaki said the “biggest stock market crash in history” is now imminent and framed the downturn as a strategic opportunity for investors prepared to act.

I Am Warning You: In Rich Dad’s Prophecy published 2013 I warned of the biggest stock market crash in history still coming.

That giant crash is now imminent.

The good news is those of you who followed my rich dad’s warning and prepared….the coming crash will make you richer…

— Robert Kiyosaki (@theRealKiyosaki) February 17, 2026

In the post shared on X, Kiyosaki reminded followers of predictions he first made more than a decade ago in his 2013 book Rich Dad’s Prophecy. He wrote that this anticipated crash, which he referred to as a ‘giant crash,’ was drawing closer and could create extraordinary wealth for those who had taken steps to prepare.

That giant crash is now imminent. The good news is those of you who followed my Rich Dad’s warning and prepared… The coming crash will make you richer beyond your wildest dreams,” Kiyosaki posted on his social account.

Crash as Opportunity: Buying the Dip

Unlike most bearish forecasts, Kiyosaki’s message was explicitly contrarian: he welcomed the prospect of a market downturn. The finance author stated he is actively buying more Bitcoin ($BTC) as other investors panic and sell, viewing price declines not as a threat but as discounted entry points into scarce assets.

I am so bullish on Bitcoin I am buying more and more as Bitcoin’s price goes down,” he notes in an X post.

Kiyosaki’s strategy aligns with a long-standing theme in his commentary: during times of economic stress, so-called real assets like Bitcoin, gold, silver, and even Ethereum ($ETH) outperform traditional financial instruments like stocks and bonds. He has reiterated this belief repeatedly, advising that crises often present the best moments to accumulate these assets.

Analysts note this approach reflects what some investors call “buying the fear,” acquiring assets at lower valuations during periods of market aversion, with the belief that long-term demand and structural supply limits will eventually lift prices again. In Bitcoin’s case, scarcity is a commonly cited bullish factor, as the protocol hard-caps the total supply at 21 million coins.

A Broader Economic Context

Nonetheless, Kiyosaki’s warning doesn’t reference cryptocurrencies alone. He has linked his outlook to broader economic conditions, contending that massive money printing, debt expansion, and what he refers to as the “fake economy” have created unstable financial foundations. Critics and supporters alike have followed his warnings for years, and some see today’s message as a reinforcement of those previous calls.

While some market commentators caution that Kiyosaki’s predictions should be weighed carefully, pointing to a history of both accurate and inaccurate forecasts, his viewpoint continues to attract attention precisely because it deviates sharply from the prevailing bullish consensus entrenched in recent years.

Related: Hong Kong Grants VDX Virtual Asset License as Victory Fintech Joins SFC List

Market Reaction and Analyst Perspectives

Reaction across the crypto market was immediate. Traders and analysts began debating whether a sharper pullback, if it comes, could reset positioning and open the door to renewed accumulation. Some argued that even absent a full-scale crash, heightened volatility often revives interest in assets perceived as scarce or independent from traditional financial systems.

In unsettled periods, narratives tend to travel quickly. Regardless, not everyone is persuaded. Several market commentators dismissed the warning outright, pointing to a long record of similar forecasts that did not align with prolonged market breakdowns. Financial planner and commentator Mark McGrath was among the more vocal critics.

Source: X

Responding to a circulating chart that cataloged years of prior crash predictions, he wrote on social media, “Lol imagine being wrong for 14 years straight but still clinging to the grift.” The remark reflected a broader skepticism that has followed Kiyosaki’s commentary for years.

Market observers note that warnings of dramatic collapses have surfaced repeatedly, including calls tied to 2011, 2015, 2018, and 2020. Despite periodic corrections, global equity markets have generally advanced over the longer term. That record has sharpened the divide between followers who see foresight and critics who see pattern repetition without outcome.

For now, the immediate market impact appears limited to conversation rather than measurable price swings. Whether the “giant crash” Kiyosaki foresees materializes remains uncertain. What is clear is that he is positioning himself, once again, on the side of volatility, buying Bitcoin while cautioning that the broader financial system may be approaching another test.

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Kraken will seed Trump Accounts for every 2026 Wyoming birth in a statewide pledge.

Each eligible child gets $1,000 from the U.S. Treasury, while families and donors can add.

Arjun Sethi casts it as future-facing capital formation aligned with the crypto rulebook.

Kraken announced Monday that it will sponsor Trump Accounts for every child born in Wyoming in 2026. The company is committing financial contributions to each eligible newborn’s federally backed savings account. The Cheyenne-headquartered exchange said the move reflects its long-term investment in the state that positioned itself as America’s home for crypto. The Trump Accounts provide $1,000 from the U.S. Treasury to qualifying children, while families and outside contributors may add funds accessible at age 18.

State Policy and Corporate Commitment

Kraken confirmed the initiative in a company blogpost, stating it will make a financial contribution to each Trump Account created for Wyoming children born in 2026. The company said the program aims to help families build long-term savings and capital formation from birth.

The Trump Account stems from the Working Families Tax Cut and provides every child born during the Trump administration with $1,000 from the U.S. Treasury until 2028. Parents, nonprofits, and other entities may contribute additional funds. When a child turns 18, the account holder can access the savings.

LATEST: KRAKEN TO SPONSOR TRUMP ACCOUNTS FOR WYOMING NEWBORNS

Crypto exchange, @krakenfx, will fund Trump Accounts for every child born in Wyoming in 2026.

The initiative includes a financial contribution to each account at birth.

Co-CEO @arjunsethi called it “an investment… pic.twitter.com/fwedJcVJvV

— BSCN (@BSCNews) February 17, 2026

Kraken Co-CEO Arjun Sethi said the sponsorship represents an investment rather than a gift. He stated, “This is not a gift. It is an investment in Wyoming’s future.” He added that the company chose Wyoming for its global headquarters because it leads in crypto innovation and regulation.

Sethi said states that create favorable policy environments for builders deserve long-term corporate commitment. He noted that seeding accounts for every newborn in 2026 supports families from the start while reinforcing Wyoming’s leadership in digital assets.

Wyoming has always punched above its weight.

It saw digital assets early. It built clear frameworks early. It chose to modernize financial infrastructure before it was fashionable.

That matters.

When a state creates thoughtful policy for builders, long-term commitment should… https://t.co/7ZXPdzR0Ci

— Arjun Sethi (@arjunsethi) February 16, 2026

Wyoming’s Crypto Framework

Wyoming built its crypto-friendly reputation through early legislative action. In 2019, the state introduced a special-purpose banking charter for digital asset firms, providing clearer custody and compliance standards before similar frameworks appeared elsewhere.

The state later chartered Kraken Financial as the nation’s first Special Purpose Depository Institution. Wyoming also launched the Frontier Stable Token, known as FRNT, expanding its digital asset initiatives.

Kraken relocated its headquarters from California to Cheyenne last year. The exchange, valued at $20 billion, cited Wyoming’s regulatory clarity as a key reason for the move. The company also supports blockchain programs at the University of Wyoming and partners with local initiatives.

U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis welcomed the announcement. She said she felt thrilled that Kraken chose to give back in a meaningful way by sponsoring Trump Accounts for every child born in Wyoming in 2026. She described the program as an investment in the next generation and the state’s economic future.

Wyoming's future has never looked brighter. Absolutely thrilled to announce @krakenfx is sponsoring Trump Accounts for every Wyoming child born in 2026. Grateful to Kraken for their commitment to Wyoming’s next generation and to the Cowboy State’s economic future. pic.twitter.com/IWRicvBgBc

— Senator Cynthia Lummis (@SenLummis) February 16, 2026

Lummis also said more digital asset companies continue to look at Wyoming. “There will be more. There will be others coming,” she said.

Related: Kraken Adds USDC–FRNT Swap Feature on Solana From Jan. 21

Regulatory Context and Industry Developments

Kraken’s announcement follows recent regulatory changes at the federal level. Last March, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission agreed in principle to end its 2023 lawsuit against the exchange. The SEC had alleged that Kraken operated as an unregistered securities exchange, broker-dealer, and clearing agency.

The case closed without any admission of wrongdoing or financial penalty. The withdrawal followed the appointment of crypto-friendly leadership at the SEC in 2025 after years of stricter enforcement under the previous administration. Regulators also dismissed cases against Coinbase, Robinhood, and Uniswap Labs during the same period.

On Monday, Sethi reiterated on social media that long-term commitment should follow when a state creates thoughtful policy for builders. His comments came as observers debated whether the sponsorship reflects philanthropy or a loyalty signal to the state that anchored Kraken’s operations.

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XRP rejected the $1.67–$1.63 zone and now tests critical support as momentum eases again.

A tightening wedge and rising exchange inflows place added pressure on short-term trends.

Reclaiming the resistance band would mark a shift, though current bias still leans bearish.

XRP’s latest rebound attempt fizzled almost as quickly as it formed, leaving traders once again questioning whether the downtrend has more room to run. The token’s weekend climb into the familiar $1.67–$1.63 pocket met firm resistance, a level that had capped the prior relief bounce and, once again, stopped momentum in its tracks.

The rejection did not spark panic selling, but it did shift attention back toward the support layers that have carried the market for weeks. By early Tuesday, XRP hovered near $1.47, managing a modest 1.26% daily gain and a weekly rise of 4%.

The modest boosts were noticeable only because the wider market at +0.40% barely moved, and Bitcoin stayed flat with a slight 0.30% uptick. Moreover, flows favored altcoins slightly as the Altcoin Season Index edged up to 30, hinting at a mild rotation, while Bitcoin dominance eased toward 58.22%.

Source: CoinMarketCap

None of it formed a clear catalyst, but it did show pockets of demand resurfacing. Still, the numbers sit against a harsher backdrop: a 29% monthly slide and a 45% year-on-year decline. Those deeper losses continue to weigh heavily on sentiment.

XRP Price Action: Resistance Holds, Trend Bends Lower Again

The push into $1.67–$1.63 never gathered the force needed to break through. Once the token’s price slipped back under $1.45, which lines up with the 38.20% Fibonacci marker, the tone changed. That area has acted as a pivot before, and losing it, even briefly, reintroduced the possibility of another swing lower.

Besides, according to the 1-hour chart TradingView analysis, the wave structure still leaves room for a retest of the $1.38–$1.34 band, where a potential double-bottom formation could occur. A deeper pocket near $1.14–$1.11 also sits below that, though calling it into play requires a clearer breakdown than anything seen over the past week.

Source: TradingView

The RSI isn’t offering much comfort either. It slipped back to 45 after failing to push through the neutral 50 band, and the indicator has begun drifting lower again. That shift suggests sellers are regaining the upper hand, with room left for price to press lower before conditions turn oversold. A drop beneath the 40 region would make that bearish tone harder to ignore and could signal that momentum has fully tipped in favor of the downside.

Wedge Pattern Tightens as Pressure Builds

Not to leave out, XRP has spent nearly two weeks moving inside a narrowing ascending wedge, usually a sign that a relief move is running out of steam. That structure now brings the coin’s price closer to the wedge’s lower rail, which happens to sit near the same $1.45 support cluster mentioned earlier.

A clean break beneath that line would weaken the case for any immediate stabilization and could guide XRP’s price toward the 200-period moving average around $1.43. Regardless, the pattern doesn’t guarantee continuation, but it rarely resolves with a bullish outcome when it appears in the middle of a larger decline.

Exchange Flows and Sentiment Add Weight

On-chain positioning has also not helped the bullish case. Since the 14th, roughly $25 million worth of XRP has moved into exchanges, an inflow that typically widens the supply available to sellers. It’s not an extraordinary figure, but it’s enough to register at a time when conviction remains uneven.

Source: CoinGlass

The sentiment picture grew heavier after Standard Chartered trimmed its year-end target from $8.00 to $2.80, a steep 65% reduction. The bank cited difficult market conditions, which aligned with broader risk-off behavior across several large-cap tokens.

Related: PIPPIN Price Soars 50% to $0.28: Can the Bull Run Break Higher?

Key Levels to Watch

The immediate focus now remains on whether XRP can hold above wedge support near $1.45. A confirmed break below this area would align with the broader bearish continuation structure and expose lower support zones.

Conversely, a sustained reclaim and hold above $1.67–$1.63 would mark the first meaningful sign of structural strength. Such a move would reopen the path toward $1.80 and potentially $2.00.

For now, price action, momentum readings, exchange inflows, and long-term performance metrics collectively indicate that short-term downside risk remains elevated.

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Ethereum stays neutral while its founder speaks freely and openly with clear resolve.

Users can access Ethereum without sharing Buterin’s personal views or his ideals too.

Permissionless design shields builders and critics across the ecosystem at all times.

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin said Ethereum remains neutral as a decentralized protocol while he retains the right to openly criticize projects built on it. His remarks followed debate over his use of the term “corposlop” to describe products he views as corporate-driven and trend-focused. He clarified that personal expression does not alter Ethereum’s permissionless design.

Protocol Neutrality and Personal Expression

Buterin explained that neutrality belongs to protocols such as HTTP, Bitcoin, and Ethereum within defined technical limits. He said individuals do not need to adopt “pretend neutrality” by hiding their principles. Instead, he argued that people should state their values clearly.

You do not have to agree with me on which applications are and are not corposlop to use Ethereum.

You do not have to agree with me on what trust assumptions are acceptable in which situations to use Ethereum.

You do not have to agree with me on political topics to use Ethereum.…

— vitalik.eth (@VitalikButerin) February 16, 2026

He said users do not need to agree with him to use Ethereum. “You do not have to agree with me on which applications are and are not corposlop to use Ethereum,” he stated. He added that disagreement on trust assumptions or political topics does not restrict access to the network.

He continued by listing further examples. “You do not have to agree with my views on defi, decentralized social or privacy-preserving payments to use Ethereum,” he said. He also noted that views on artificial intelligence remain separate from protocol access.

The Meaning of Permissionlessness

Buterin said he does not claim to represent the entire Ethereum ecosystem. He described Ethereum as a decentralized protocol rooted in permissionlessness and censorship resistance. According to him, individuals can use Ethereum regardless of his views or those of the Ethereum Foundation.

He stated that users remain free to build or transact without regard for what he or any client developer thinks. At the same time, he said criticism does not equal censorship. He argued that free speech allows him to criticize applications, just as others can criticize him.

“If I say that one’s application is corposlop, I am not censoring someone,” he said. He framed that position as part of the broader principle of open discourse. Can a decentralized protocol remain neutral while its founder speaks openly about his views?

Beyond the Protocol Layer

Buterin also argued that the modern world does not require “pretend neutrality.” He said neutrality fits protocols within the technical scope but does not apply to personal values. According to him, principles inevitably influence what developers build on top of a protocol.

He stated that values such as freedom extend beyond code. Treating freedom as relevant only to architecture while ignoring broader social questions lacks practicality, he said. He described that separation as hollow.

Related: Vitalik Maps How Ethereum and AI Can Reshape Trust and Markets

To illustrate his point, he referenced Linux. He said Linux supports user empowerment and freedom while also serving as the base layer for major corporate systems. Some projects built on Linux align with certain values, while others do not.

He argued that those who value Linux for empowerment must build a full-stack ecosystem aligned with those principles. Still, he acknowledged that others will use Linux differently. He concluded that Ethereum operates under a similar dynamic.

Vitalik Buterin drew a clear boundary between Ethereum’s neutral protocol and his personal voice. He affirmed that anyone can use Ethereum without sharing his views. At the same time, he defended his right to criticize projects openly. In doing so, he framed Ethereum as permissionless in code and expressive in culture.

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Victory Fintech secures VDX license as Hong Kong adds another regulated crypto venue.

New approval strengthens the city’s push for a compliant and supervised digital asset market.

The VDX license aligns Victory Group services with Hong Kong’s expanding oversight framework.

Hong Kong has added another operator to its regulated crypto roster, widening a market it has spent years trying to shape into something predictable and compliant. Victory Fintech Company Limited is the latest to cross the line, securing the VDX Virtual Asset License that brings its trading platform under the Securities and Futures Commission’s supervision.

The update appeared on the SFC’s public register on February 13, confirming the company’s CE Ref: BTF116 status and marking its formal entry into the list of licensed virtual asset trading platforms. The approval folds Victory Fintech into a group that now numbers at least a dozen operators.

With the VDX Virtual Asset License taking effect the same day, the platform can run as a regulated venue inside Hong Kong’s maturing digital asset framework. The move arrives during a period of intensified regulatory refinement, and it gives the firm the legal footing required to operate without uncertainty.

Licensing Under SFO and AMLO

Regulatory clearance spans two pillars. Under the Securities and Futures Ordinance, Victory Fintech is authorized for Type 1 dealing in securities and Type 7 automated trading services. Those two categories form the operational backbone for exchange activity in Hong Kong, allowing a platform to handle client orders and provide system-driven trading functions.

A second approval comes through the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance. That license covers the operation of a virtual asset trading platform, an increasingly scrutinized segment as the city works to lock down compliance gaps. Combined, the permissions bring the VDX Virtual Asset License into full force and place the company squarely inside the SFC’s supervisory structure.

Notably, the regulator’s licensing regime is not known for its leniency. Platforms must demonstrate cybersecurity readiness, AML safeguards, operational resilience, and decision-making governance before any approval is issued. Besides, the public register remains the SFC’s primary signal to investors regarding who is authorized and who is still waiting in the queue.

Expanding the Regulated Market

On a broader scale, the addition of Victory Fintech widens a field already anchored by names such as OSL Digital Securities Limited and Hash Blockchain Limited. More recent entrants, PantherTrade, YAX (Hong Kong) Limited, and Bullish HK Markets Limited, have also joined the list as the city pivots toward a fully supervised crypto environment.

Essentially, Hong Kong built its virtual asset rules to offer clearer protections than offshore venues, and regulators continue to emphasize that firms on the applicants list have not yet met the required thresholds. The VDX Virtual Asset License now positions Victory Fintech among operators that can serve both local and institutional participants without regulatory ambiguity.

Integration Within the Victory Group

The license also has implications beyond the exchange. Victory Securities, an affiliate within the wider Victory Financial Group, already holds approvals to provide virtual asset-linked services, including discretionary account management.

The new authorization, on the other hand, allows Victory Fintech to fold its trading operations into that ecosystem, giving the group a broader, regulated toolkit that spans execution, wealth management, and structured offerings.

Related: Amberdata Report Correlates WLFI Plunge With BTC Collapse

Competitive and Policy Landscape

Hong Kong’s regulatory push is partly driven by its rivalry with other financial hubs. Authorities have loosened certain trading-related rules, including allowing licensed platforms to share order book data with affiliated overseas venues.

These adjustments are meant to support liquidity and attract global order flow. The SFC’s ASPIRe Roadmap has also opened pathways for financing products and expanded professional-investor options in the digital asset space.

With Victory Fintech now fully licensed, the city’s regulated market reflects an industry moving toward structure rather than experimentation, aiming to balance innovation with a firmer compliance spine.

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YZi Labs advances board expansion through a revised SEC consent filing process.

The CEA has  firmly denied delisting risk and confirms adherence to Nasdaq rules.

Ongoing SEC review reflects tighter oversight of crypto-linked governance actions. 

YZi Labs, formerly known as Binance Labs, filed a revised preliminary consent with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, targeting Nasdaq-listed CEA Industries. The filing forms part of an ongoing governance contest as YZi Labs seeks to expand CEA’s board and elect its nominees while regulators continue their review.

The submission follows a simplified S-3 registration statement that YZi Labs filed in September 2024. That earlier filing marked the beginning of its formal regulatory engagement related to CEA Industries.

YZi Labs makes a new SEC move !

YZi Labs has submitted a revised preliminary consent filing to the U.S. #SEC for Nasdaq-listed CEA Industry, following an earlier S-3 registration, with the application currently under regulatory review.#NASDAQ #Blockchain #CryptoTale pic.twitter.com/KRrswezjtn

— CryptoTale (@cryptotalemedia) February 16, 2026

At the same time, CEA Industries stated it remains fully compliant with Nasdaq listing standards. The company rejected claims of regulatory violations and denied any risk of delisting.

Governance Contest Takes Center Stage

YZi Labs and its affiliates own 2,150,481 shares of CEA Industries common stock. With that stake, the firm launched a consent solicitation campaign aimed at reshaping the company’s board structure.

The group uses a WHITE consent card to gather shareholder support for its proposed changes. Through this process, YZi Labs seeks to secure the election of its nominees and expand board representation.

According to the regulatory filing, the initiative centers on corporate governance. If shareholders approve the proposal, the board’s composition could shift and influence future corporate strategy.

CEA Industries pushed back against certain claims linked to compliance. The company stated that it changed its fiscal year-end to align with its largest operating business and disclosed the decision in a Form 8-K filing.

It also addressed concerns about delays in holding its annual meeting. The company maintained that it complied with Nasdaq rules and rejected any suggestion of listing violations.

The SEC now reviews YZi Labs’ amended proxy materials. That review will determine the next procedural steps in the governance contest.

From S-3 Filing to Revised Consent

YZi Labs began its regulatory process in September 2024 when it submitted a Form S-3 registration statement. Companies that meet reporting requirements use the S-3 for certain securities offerings. The recent revised preliminary consent reflects an updated submission within the SEC review process. Regulatory practice shows that revised filings often respond to requests for clarification or additional information.

The SEC conducts methodical reviews, particularly when filings involve blockchain-related enterprises. In this case, YZi Labs adjusted its documentation as part of that structured review.

The filing represents another case of digital asset companies operating in accordance with existing financial regulations. Companies are moving towards regulatory compliance as institutional investors are entering the market in growing numbers. 

Shareholder-written consents have emerged as a mechanism for shareholders in various industries to shape board membership decisions. The governance methods AMC Networks uses to change its indenture demonstrate that other sectors are using the same strategies. 

Financial compliance specialists assert that revised preliminary consents indicate that issuers and regulators are continuing their ongoing discussions. The SEC conducts its regular review process through these types of exchanges.

Related: BitGo NYSE Listing Draws YZi Labs Backing for Crypto Trust

Broader Regulatory Context

The interaction between cryptocurrency ventures and regulators continues to evolve. Market growth, technological innovation, and investor protection shape that relationship. Institutional participation has increased demand for clear compliance standards. At the same time, new financial products require regulatory scrutiny.

The SEC maintains its primary focus on protecting investors through its regulatory activities. The regulators aim to stop fraudulent activities while examining new filings to maintain the integrity of financial markets. YZi Labs’ activities in this environment demonstrate how blockchain-based organizations join with established financial markets. Other firms may watch closely as the SEC proceeds with its review.

If shareholders approve YZi Labs’ proposal, CEA Industries could see a change in board leadership. How might that reshape the company’s future direction? For now, the SEC continues its review of the amended proxy statement. CEA Industries maintains that it complies with Nasdaq rules and faces no delisting risk as the process unfolds.

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WLFI trading volume expanded 21.7 times the baseline within minutes of tariff headlines.

Perpetual funding reached 2.87% per eight hours, implying 131% annualized stress.

The erosion of WLFI collateral triggered market liquidations in Bitcoin and Ethereum.

World Liberty Financial Token (WLFI) declined sharply more than five hours before a $6.93 billion crypto liquidation wave struck on Oct. 10, 2025, according to a new Amberdata report. During the crash, Bitcoin fell about 15%, and Ether dropped roughly 20%, while several smaller tokens plunged up to 70%. 

Amberdata said WLFI’s early divergence occurred while Bitcoin still traded near $121,000 and showed little visible stress, raising questions about whether the governance token signaled broader market strain before the cascade began.

Amberdata examined trading patterns from that day and found that WLFI’s decline started hours before the broader selloff accelerated. Mike Marshall, who authored the report, said the five-hour gap stood out. “A five-hour lead time is hard to dismiss as a coincidence,” Marshall said. He added that such a duration separates an actionable warning from a statistical anomaly.

The report does not allege insider trading. Instead, it argues that crypto market structure can amplify certain assets beyond their size.

Unusual Trading Patterns Before the Crash

Researchers identified three unusual patterns in WLFI trading before the market broke lower. First, WLFI’s hourly volume surged to about $474 million, roughly 21.7 times its typical level. That spike appeared within minutes of tariff-related political news entering the public domain.

Second, WLFI diverged sharply from Bitcoin during that period. While Bitcoin held near $121,000, WLFI began sliding. Marshall described the activity as “instrument-specific,” meaning traders focused heavily on WLFI rather than the broader crypto complex.

NEW: TRUMP-LINKED WLFI MAY HAVE WARNED OF CRYPTO CRASH HOURS EARLY

US President Donald Trump-linked ( @realDonaldTrump ) @worldlibertyfi ( $WLFI ) began falling over five hours before the Oct. 10, 2025 market collapse, a new Amberdata report says, according to @Cointelegraph.… pic.twitter.com/S1wUYb68Vg

— BSCN (@BSCNews) February 16, 2026

“If this were superior analysis, you’d expect to see that reflected more broadly,” Marshall said. “What we actually saw was concentrated activity in WLFI first.” He added that the pattern suggested targeted execution rather than general market repositioning.

Third, leverage intensified around WLFI. Funding rates on WLFI perpetual futures reached about 2.87% every eight hours. That level translated into an annualized borrowing cost near 131%, reflecting aggressive positioning.

Trading volume accelerated roughly three minutes after public tariff news broke. Marshall said that speed suggested prepared execution rather than retail traders reacting in real time.

Related: WLFI Drops 8% as Bearish Trend Deepens: What Comes Next?

How WLFI’s Drop Spread Across Markets

The report links WLFI’s early decline to the broader crash through collateral mechanics. Many crypto exchanges allow traders to post various tokens as collateral for leveraged positions. When WLFI’s price fell, the value of that collateral dropped quickly.

As collateral values shrank, traders faced margin calls. To cover positions, they sold more liquid assets such as Bitcoin and Ether. Those sales pushed prices lower and triggered further liquidations across the market.

Amberdata described WLFI as a “liquidity sponge” because of its vast supply and concentrated holder base. According to the report, politically connected participants hold a large share of the token. By contrast, Bitcoin ownership remains widely distributed.

Early selling by that concentrated group can trigger cascading reactions before the broader market adjusts. In the October event, WLFI began declining more than five hours before Bitcoin reacted to tariff headlines. That divergence, Amberdata said, created a flow-based early warning signal for traders watching price and volume shifts.  

Political Catalysts and Ongoing Risks

The report also identifies a near-term catalyst: the Mar-a-Lago “World Liberty Forum” scheduled for February 18. Amberdata said such events can create narrative windows that amplify price action around politically sensitive tokens.

Recently, WLFI rose about 12% within 24 hours ahead of that forum. Amberdata noted that traders should monitor whether price action aligns with event outcomes or diverges again, potentially revealing pressure beneath the surface.

At the same time, WLFI carries what the report calls a persistent “amber alert” status. Community warnings about scams or suspicious on-chain activity can spark rapid selling. Combined with concentrated ownership and political sensitivity, those alerts add another layer of volatility.

Against that backdrop, the October 10 episode raises a central question: can a politically linked governance token continue to act as a leading indicator for broader crypto market stress?

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Bitcoin logs its first-ever January and February losses together in a single calendar year.

Institutional caution grows as U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs record over $410M in net outflows.

Long-term trend markers reappear as Bitcoin retests levels tied to past market turning points.

Bitcoin has opened 2026 with a statistical first. For the first time on record, the asset closed both January and February in the red within the same calendar year. Market data from CoinGlass shows January ended down 10.17%, followed by a 12.12% decline in February.

The back-to-back losses stand out against more than a decade of monthly return data. Since 2013, early-year performance has often set the tone for broader cycles. This time, however, the pattern has shifted, with the price now trading below $70,000 and institutional flows turning negative.

Current Price Structure and ETF Flows

January has always been an uneven month for Bitcoin, sometimes up, often down, but usually tame when averaged out over time. Per records, long-term numbers hover at a modest +2.81% on average, with a median near break-even.

Even years that opened in the red typically recovered by February. Historically, this month has been far more supportive. Across more than a decade of tracked returns, the month posts an average gain of +11.31% and a median of +11.68%.

Source: X

Several cycles recorded standout performances, including 2013’s +61.77%, 2017’s +23.07%, 2021’s +36.78%, and the sharp rebound in 2024 at +43.55%. Downside Februaries, however, have also appeared in 2014, 2020, and 2025, among them, but not in tandem with a January decline of this scale.

The 2026 combination has no prior match in the monthly heatmap. Seasonal data usually shows a lift as spring approaches. March and April tend to rank among stronger stretches, averaging +12.21% and +13.06%.

Later in the year, October and November frequently deliver outsized returns. September, nonetheless, remains the historical drag, averaging -3.08%, which makes the early-year slump stand out even more.

Price Action and ETF Pressure

At press time, Bitcoin trades around $68,278, down roughly 3% on the day, with volume slipping to $37.58 billion. Besides, the price sits below short- and medium-range moving averages: $68,677 over seven days and $78,588 over 30. These levels are not rigid signals on their own, yet together they show a market losing momentum rather than building it.

Source: SoSoValue

A second day of heavy withdrawals from U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs has added strain. SoSoValue recorded $410.37 million in net outflows on Feb. 12, underscoring a risk-off tilt among institutional desks. ETF inflows helped drive prior rallies; outflows now serve as the opposite force, draining support during a delicate stretch.

Source: CoinMarketCap

Meanwhile, the CMC Altcoin Season Index has dropped to 34 after a sharp slide, suggesting a pullback into liquidity over speculation. Traders appear more focused on capital preservation than rotation into smaller assets.

Related: PIPPIN Price Soars 50% to $0.28: Can the Bull Run Break Higher?

Long-Term Indicators Reenter View

Analysts watching broader cycle markers are revisiting levels that previously aligned with turning points. According to market researcher Master of Crypto, Bitcoin spent about 270 days under its 200-week moving average before climbing back above it.

Bitcoin spent ~270 days below the 200W MA before reclaiming it.

Then another ~220 days of sideways chop before the real breakout.

Nearly 500 days of testing one key level.

Now price is pulling back toward the 200W MA again.

If history repeats, this zone is not the end – it’s… pic.twitter.com/xEsqu9v4tU

— Master of Crypto (@MasterCryptoHq) February 16, 2026

Once reclaimed, it drifted sideways for nearly 220 days. In total, the interaction with that long-term trend stretched across roughly 500 days before the next expansion phase. That historical pattern matters again as price leans back toward the same multi-year average.

Another indicator gaining attention is the estimated production cost. Analyst Michael Van De Poppe notes that the spot price is approaching the lower boundary of miners’ expense models. Similar compressions appeared near major cycle lows in 2015, 2018, and 2022. Each time, the price hovered near production cost before broader market conditions shifted.

Source: X

With Bitcoin still under $70,000, ETFs shedding capital, and historical baselines reappearing in analysis, the early months of 2026 are shaping up as an unusually heavy start to the year, one without a clear historical parallel.

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Retail investors raised Bitcoin and Ethereum balances despite sharp market swings.

February wallet balances exceeded December levels despite sharp volatility swings

With the release of accumulation data, Coinbase’s stock increased by 16.46 percent.

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong said retail investors bought Bitcoin and Ethereum during early 2025 price declines, according to internal exchange data. He stated that retail wallet balances in February stood higher than in December despite price swings. Meanwhile, Coinbase Global Inc. shares closed at $164.32 on February 13, up 16.46%.

Armstrong shared the data publicly and described retail users as resilient during recent market conditions. He said users increased native unit holdings across BTC and ETH. He added that many customers held assets through volatility rather than selling.

Retail users on Coinbase have been very resilient during these market conditions, according to our data:

– They’ve been buying the dip – we’ve seen a native unit increase for retail users across BTC and ETH

– They have diamond hands – vast majority of customers had native unit…

— Brian Armstrong (@brian_armstrong) February 15, 2026

The disclosure comes as cryptocurrency markets faced sharp price swings in early 2025. Bitcoin moved between defined support and resistance levels. Despite these fluctuations, retail activity showed steady accumulation.

Retail Accumulation During Volatility

Armstrong stated, “Retail users on Coinbase have been very resilient during these market conditions, according to our data: They’ve been buying the dip—we’ve seen a native unit increase for retail users across BTC and ETH.”

He also said retail wallet balances in February exceeded December levels even after price peaks and troughs. He noted that many users displayed what crypto-lore scholars call “diamond hands,” holding assets during downturns.

Market analysts have observed similar patterns in previous cycles. Armstrong’s data confirms the existence of this trend in modern times. Retail behavior showed different results compared to institutional strategies, which used short-term price changes and macroeconomic indicators for their operations.

Related: Brian Armstrong Explains Coinbase Insider Sales Strategy

Multiple factors created the conditions that led to this accumulation pattern. Investors learned about market cycles and long-term adoption trends through their financial education programs. The real-time data, which covered multiple platforms, enabled users to make better decisions.

At the same time, many investors maintained conviction in blockchain technology’s potential. Portfolio strategies evolved toward systematic investment approaches instead of emotional trading. Younger investors also showed different risk tolerance and longer investment horizons.

Economic uncertainty in early 2025 shaped portfolio decisions. With traditional markets facing interest rate and inflation concerns, some retail investors allocated funds to digital assets as diversification. In that context, what does steady retail accumulation suggest about long-term cryptocurrency conviction?

Coinbase Stock Rallies on February 13

Coinbase Global Inc. closed sharply higher on February 13, according to Google Finance. The stock settled at $164.32 on the NASDAQ. Shares gained $23.23 on the day, marking a 16.46% increase from the previous close of $141.09.

After-hours trading extended the move. The price reached $166.15, rising $1.83 or 1.11%. The one-day chart showed early volatility after the market opened at 10:00 a.m. The stock dipped below $150 shortly after the open. It then rebounded above $160 before midday. Through the afternoon, shares traded in a narrow mid-$160 range and ended near session highs.

Source:  Google Finance

The reported day range stood between $146.16 and $167.65. Coinbase holds a market capitalization of $44.31 billion. The company reports an average trading volume of 11.21 million shares. Its price-to-earnings ratio stands at 14.22. The listing shows no dividend yield. The 52-week range spans from $139.36 to $444.65.

Armstrong’s disclosure coincided with the stock’s sharp move. Retail customers either bolstered or maintained Bitcoin and Ethereum holdings during recent market weakness, according to the exchange’s internal data and Armstrong’s public remarks.

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Russia sets a 2026 review for a state-backed stablecoin amid shifting policy views.

New crypto rules may pass this spring, giving markets clearer operating ground.

Sanctions pressure and foreign frameworks push Moscow to explore digital options.

The Russian Central Bank is preparing to revisit an idea it has resisted for years: whether the country should issue a ruble-backed stablecoin. The shift surfaced during remarks by First Deputy Chairperson Vladimir Chistyukhin at the Alfa Talk conference in Moscow, where he confirmed that a full study is scheduled for 2026.

His comments, relayed by TASS, mark one of the clearest signs that the regulator is opening the door, if only slightly, to a tool it once dismissed outright. Chistyukhin said the review will reassess earlier objections, noting that developments abroad now warrant a closer look.

Once the research is complete, the findings will be put out for public discussion, giving lawmakers and markets their first formal window into the bank’s evolving position.

A Policy Reassessment After Years of Resistance

The Russian Central Bank spent years warning against the circulation of private digital assets, insisting that the digital ruble would be the only acceptable state-aligned alternative. Yet that line began to blur in 2025.

The regulator authorized an experimental regime for crypto transactions, then loosened restrictions on crypto derivatives soon after. By December of that year, the bank had outlined a broader regulatory blueprint.

The paper proposed recognizing decentralized cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and various stablecoins, as “monetary assets.” It also called for a licensing regime to bring digital asset exchanges into a cleaner legal framework.

Even with those changes, officials kept pointing back to a single principle: the Russian ruble would remain the only legal tender. The upcoming review, however, does not signal a policy reversal; rather, it reflects a regulator trying to keep pace with a fast-moving landscape that no longer fits its older prohibitions.

Legislative Backing Expected in Spring Session

Chistyukhin also told reporters that the Russian Central Bank and the government expect the long-pending crypto regulation bill to clear the State Duma during the spring session. The legislation is designed to standardize how digital asset businesses operate inside the country.

If passed, it would give courts, regulators, and licensed platforms a clearer rulebook. Moreover, the study on a potential stablecoin will run alongside that legislative process, suggesting that the regulator does not want to move on one issue without clarity on the other.

Global Developments Influence Domestic Strategy

On the broader scale, global regulatory momentum is playing an unusually direct role in Moscow’s considerations. In the United States, the GENIUS Act has imposed structure on dollar-pegged stablecoins.

Across Europe, MiCA rules and the digital euro program have pushed the region toward formal oversight of euro-denominated tokens. These developments have not gone unnoticed in Moscow, where policymakers now see room to examine how similar instruments might fit into Russia’s monetary system.

Essentially, a ruble-backed stablecoin would differ from the digital ruble, which is issued directly by the state. Instead, it would function more like a tokenized instrument operating in markets that increasingly rely on regulated reserves and transparent backing.

Related: Ripple CEO Calls XRP North Star for Long-Term Plan Growth

Sanctions and Market Demand Shape Debate

Russia’s financial isolation has accelerated interest in digital settlement tools. As a result, entities affected by sanctions have turned to digital assets to manage cross-border payments where traditional banking channels stumble or shut.

One example gaining traction is A7A5, a ruble-referenced stablecoin operating through infrastructure in Kyrgyzstan. Its rising transaction activity highlights a demand that the Russian Central Bank can no longer ignore.

By committing to a structured study, the Russian Central Bank appears intent on understanding whether a domestic stablecoin could reinforce monetary sovereignty without undermining financial stability. How far that review will go remains unclear, but for the first time, the question is officially on the table and no longer theoretical.

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Cryptocurrency flows linked to trafficking networks rose sharply worldwide in 2025.

Stablecoins currently anchor escort and prostitution payment structures globally.

Subscriptions and cryptocurrency laundering are two ways that CSAM markets grow.

Cryptocurrency transactions tied to suspected human trafficking services surged 85% year over year in 2025, reaching hundreds of millions of dollars, according to a new report from Chainalysis. The firm said the figures reflect only financial activity, while the real harm lies in the lives affected.  Investigators linked the spike to Southeast Asia–based scam compounds, online gambling platforms, and Chinese-language money laundering networks operating through Telegram. 

Although blockchain records expose financial trails, these networks continue to expand across borders. Chainalysis identified four main categories of suspected cryptocurrency-facilitated trafficking. These include Telegram-based “international escort” services, labor placement agents tied to scam compounds, prostitution networks, and child sexual abuse material vendors. 

Each category shows distinct payment and transaction patterns that allow analysts to track operational structures.

Stablecoins Dominate Escort and Prostitution Networks

“International escort” services and prostitution networks rely almost entirely on stablecoins. Chainalysis found that nearly half of transactions on Telegram-based escort services exceed $10,000. Specifically, 48.8% of transfers surpassed that threshold, indicating organized operations with structured pricing.  

By contrast, prostitution networks show mid-range payments. About 62% of transactions fall between $1,000 and $10,000, suggesting agency-level coordination rather than isolated actors. These payment tiers create predictable blockchain footprints.

Chainalysis also documented structured business models. One operation is advertised across major East Asian cities with prices from 3,000 RMB for hourly services to 8,000 RMB for extended arrangements, including international transport. Such standardized pricing produces identifiable transaction clusters for compliance teams.

Moreover, these escort services connect closely with Chinese-language money laundering networks and guarantee platforms such as Tudou and Xinbi. These services convert USD stablecoins into local currencies quickly. This rapid conversion may reduce concerns about asset freezes by centralized issuers.

Labor placement agents show similar financial patterns. Recruitment payments usually range from $1,000 to $10,000. These figures align with advertised pricing tiers shared in Telegram channels. Administrators even discuss methods to move detained workers across borders, including during Thailand–Cambodia tensions.

Related: North Korean Crypto Thefts Hit Record $2B in 2025: Chainalysis

Chainalysis linked one recruitment channel administrator to the “Fully Light Group,” a Kokang-based organization previously flagged by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for illegal gambling and money laundering. 

CSAM Networks Shift Financial Tactics

Child sexual abuse material vendors show a different pattern. About half of related transactions fall under $100, reflecting low subscription fees. Many services now operate on monthly subscription models rather than pay-per-content systems.

While Bitcoin once dominated these payments, Chainalysis found that users increasingly adopted alternative Layer 1 networks. Operators increasingly turn to Monero for laundering proceeds from their illegal activities. The users depend on instant exchangers, which perform cryptocurrency swaps without requiring know-your-customer verification.

Geographic data revealed heavy use of U.S.-based infrastructure for clear web CSAM sites. IP addresses in South Korea, Spain, and Russia also appeared, though with smaller flows. Analysts said operators may leverage U.S. hosting for scale and reliability.

Chris Hughes, Internet Watch Foundation Hotline Director, said the organization identified 312,030 reports containing child sexual abuse images and videos in 2025, marking a 7% increase from the previous year. He stated, “Any payment information that we identify on commercial websites is captured and shared with global law enforcement and organizations like Chainalysis to disrupt further distribution.”

Global Reach and Monitoring Indicators

Geographic analysis shows that Chinese-language escort services operate across mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. Transaction flows also originated from Brazil, the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Australia. These cross-border transfers reveal global reach.

Chainalysis outlined several monitoring indicators. The indicators derived from their study include two main components: large recurring payments to labor agents and high-volume activity through guarantee platforms and wallet clusters that connect to multiple illegal operations, stablecoin conversion cycles, and links to Telegram recruitment channels. 

The investigators from this study investigate one main question that emerges from the growing use of cryptocurrency. The question they investigate asks whether blockchain technology can provide transparency that outmatches the fast development of trafficking networks.

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Overall inflation remains within projections, and the headline CPI cools to 2.4%.

Monthly gains are driven by housing costs, while energy and gas prices decline.

Bitcoin improves by 3.88% as liquidity and Treasury returns influence the market.

Markets reacted to January U.S. inflation data showing headline CPI at 2.4% year over year, below the 2.5% estimate. Core inflation prints 2.5%, in line with forecasts, while Bitcoin trades near $68,894 and Treasury yields hover around 3.52%. Headline CPI rises 0.2% in January on a monthly basis, while core increases 0.3%, seasonally adjusted. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics identifies shelter as the largest contributor to the monthly gain. Shelter climbs 0.2% during the month and stands 3.0% higher over the year.

Energy declines 1.5% in January, and gasoline drops 3.2% on a seasonally adjusted basis. Airline fares surge 6.5% during the month, while used cars and trucks fall 1.8%. Motor vehicle insurance slips 0.4%. Over 12 months, food prices rise 2.9% and energy edges down 0.1%.

Data Gaps and Market Reaction

The BLS notes missing CPI data for October and November 2025 due to a lapse in appropriations. The Cleveland Fed’s nowcasting page also flags the delayed October 2025 release tied to last year’s government shutdown.

Those gaps leave holes in the official record. As a result, models and proxy estimates take on greater weight in forecasting. Market participants factor that uncertainty into pricing decisions.

Once the data posts, short-term interest rates adjust quickly. The 2-year Treasury yield stands near 3.52% on Feb. 11, up from 3.45% the prior day, according to FRED. That yield sets a baseline return and competes directly with risk assets.

Bitcoin and Liquidity Conditions

Bitcoin trades at $68,894.65, gaining 3.88% over 24 hours, according to CoinMarketCap. The intraday chart from 12:00 PM through 9:00 AM on Feb. 14 shows a rebound from $66.16K toward the $68.89K range.

Market capitalization reaches $1.37 trillion, up 3.89%. Meanwhile, 24-hour trading volume falls 16.54% to $36.65 billion, placing the volume-to-market-cap ratio at 2.66%. Fully diluted valuation stands at $1.44 trillion.

The total supply of Bitcoin amounts to 19.98 million BTC, while the maximum supply reaches 21 million. The circulating supply stands at 19.98 million BTC, while the treasury holdings contain 1.17 million BTC. Bitcoin has a perfect profile score of 100, which attracts more than 6 million viewers to its content.

Inflation in Daily Life

The all-items index shows a 12-month increase of 2.4%, representing a  2.7% decrease from the rate observed in December. The core inflation rate remains unchanged at 2.5% when measured on an annual basis. The different expense categories, which include shelter, food, insurance, and travel expenses, determine how families spend their money.

Related: US Inflation Cools Down To 2.8%, But Tariffs Pose Risks

People most frequently encounter inflation through their housing expenses, food purchases, and insurance costs. The prices of airline tickets experience great fluctuations, while energy costs change every month. These price changes cause people to alter their spending habits and their emotional state.

The 2.4% CPI report indicates that inflation is decreasing. The housing market experiences a 3.0% yearly increase, while food costs experience a 2.9% yearly increase. What will be the next market reaction to the Treasury yields, which are currently at 3.52%, and the DefiLlama report, which showed stablecoin liquidity of $307 billion?

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Truth Social files Bitcoin, Ether, and CRO ETFs amid $410M Bitcoin ETF outflows.

BlackRock IBIT leads withdrawals with $157.56M in major single-day redemptions.

Proposed ETFs include staking rewards exposure and carry a 0.95% management fee.

Trump Media’s Truth Social has moved to expand its digital asset ambitions, filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for two new crypto exchange-traded funds as institutional money flows turn negative across major products. The applications arrive during a week marked by sharp outflows from spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs.

TRUTH SOCIAL FILES FOR TWO CRYPTO ETFs

Trump Media’s Truth Social Funds filed with the SEC for two cryptocurrency ETFs. One, the Cronos Yield Maximizer ETF, targets CRO plus staking rewards; the other, the Bitcoin and Ether ETF, tracks BTC and ETH plus Ether staking.

Crypto…

— *Walter Bloomberg (@DeItaone) February 13, 2026

Yet, the filings, submitted by Truth Social Funds, seek approval for the Truth Social Cronos Yield Maximizer ETF and the Truth Social Bitcoin and Ether ETF. Per the report, the proposed products would provide exposure to Cronos (CRO), Bitcoin, and Ether, while also incorporating staking rewards where applicable. The registration statements remain under SEC review and are not yet effective.

Dual ETF Strategy Targets Yield and Price Exposure

According to the filing, the Truth Social Cronos Yield Maximizer ETF aims to track the performance of CRO, the native token of the Cronos ecosystem, plus staking rewards associated with the asset.

The second product, the Truth Social Bitcoin and Ether ETF, is designed to reflect the combined performance of Bitcoin and Ether, alongside Ether staking rewards. Besides, both funds will be advised by Yorkville America Equities, LLC, with an expected management fee of 0.95%.

On the other hand, Truth Social Funds is joining hands with Crypto.com for operational support. Subject to regulatory approval, Crypto.com is expected to provide digital asset custody, liquidity, and staking services. The ETFs would be available for purchase through Crypto.com’s affiliated broker-dealer, Foris Capital US LLC.

Steve Neamtz, president of Yorkville America Equities, said the firm intends to offer investors exposure to both capital appreciation and income opportunities through digital asset products. Kris Marszalek, co-founder and CEO of Crypto.com, confirmed the company’s role in custody, liquidity, and staking support.

Related: Scott Bessent Calls for Clarity Act as Bitcoin Slide Deepens

Filings Land Amid Sharp ETF Outflows

The announcement comes as U.S.-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded a combined net outflow of $410.37 million on February 12. Notably, no Bitcoin ETF reported daily inflows on that date. Data from SoSoValue showed BlackRock’s IBIT registered the largest daily withdrawal at $157.56 million.

Source: SoSoValue

Fidelity’s FBTC followed with $104.13 million in outflows, while other Bitcoin ETFs also posted withdrawals. WisdomTree’s BTCW and Hashdex’s DEFI were the only funds reporting no inflows or outflows. Ethereum-linked products, on the other hand, also recorded net outflows totaling approximately $113.10 million on the same day.

Source: SoSoValue

Despite negative institutional flows, Bitcoin posted a 24-hour gain of roughly 5%. However, it remained below the $70,000 level, a price point it has yet to break decisively in recent sessions.

Related: South Korea Tightens Crypto Oversight to Track Hidden Assets

Broader Cronos Strategy Underpins Expansion

On a broader scale, Friday’s ETF filing builds on a previously disclosed strategic partnership between Trump Media and Crypto.com. Under that agreement, Trump Media was set to acquire 684.4 million CRO tokens at an approximate price of $0.153 per token.

Moreover, the transaction structure included a 50% stock and 50% cash exchange. It also outlined the creation of a Trump Media Group CRO Strategy aimed at integrating Cronos into the company’s broader digital asset initiatives.

Market reaction to the ETF filing appeared measured. Shares of Trump Media (DJT) rose about 2.5% during Friday’s session, trading near $11.18. The registration statements specify that the securities described in the prospectus may not be sold, nor may offers to buy be accepted, until the SEC review process is completed and the filings become effective.

The timing of the ETF applications places Truth Social’s crypto expansion against a backdrop of declining institutional inflows. While spot demand for Bitcoin showed resilience in price terms, ETF data reflected reduced appetite among large investors.

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